False Hellebore

Also known as Hellebore, Indian Poke, White Hellebore

Veratrum viride

This plant which may be six feet tall, has large wide leaves and greenish white flowers. It is native to moist pastures and open woods. The poisonous principle effectively lowers blood pressure and veratrum preparations are used as medicines. Symptoms of poisoning are headaches, hallucinations and burning of the mouth and throat. Salivation, shortness of breath and a slow pulse have also been reported. Very large doses cause death by respiratory depression.